6 Ways to Motivate Your Kids to Brush (That Actually Work)
Getting kids to brush their teeth can sometimes feel like a battle. The complaints, the distractions, the sudden need to do anything else but brush.
But teaching kids good oral hygiene habits early on is one of the best things you can do for their long-term health. So, how can you make toothbrushing something your child actually wants to do?
At Gander Smiles Dentistry, we know that healthy habits start at home, and they’re more likely to stick when they’re fun and engaging. The good news is that motivating your child to brush doesn’t have to involve bribes or bedtime battles. In fact, there are simple, creative strategies that actually work and might even get your kids excited about brushing their teeth.
How to Motivate Your Kids to Brush Their Teeth
1. Make It a Family Affair
Kids are always watching what their parents do, and brushing your teeth alongside them can be a powerful motivator. When children see that brushing is part of everyone’s daily routine, it helps normalize the habit and creates a sense of shared responsibility.
Try brushing together in the morning and before bed, turning it into a quick family moment. You can even make it into a game to see who can brush the longest or dance the silliest while brushing.
When brushing becomes a shared activity instead of a solo chore, it feels less like an obligation and more like something to look forward to. Modeling good habits is one of the most effective ways to encourage kids to do the same.
2. Let Them Choose Their Tools
Some kids love having choices. One easy way to give them a sense of control is to let them pick their own toothbrush and toothpaste (with your guidance, of course). Whether it’s a toothbrush featuring their favorite cartoon character or a toothpaste in a fun flavor like bubblegum or strawberry, having a say in their brushing tools can make a big difference in motivation.
There are also plenty of child-friendly electric toothbrushes with lights, sounds, and timers that make brushing more engaging. These small touches can turn a boring routine into a daily adventure.
3. Use Music and Timers
Two minutes can feel like an eternity for a young child, but music and timers can make it fly by. Try playing a catchy song that’s about two minutes long, or use a brushing app with a fun countdown and visuals. Many electric toothbrushes for kids come with built-in timers or companion apps that guide brushing with animations and music.
This approach not only helps kids brush for the recommended amount of time but also creates a rhythm and routine that makes the process easier to stick with. Before you know it, brushing time can become dance time.
4. Create a Brushing Rewards Chart
Kids thrive on positive reinforcement, and a simple sticker chart can work wonders. Each time your child brushes their teeth (morning and night), they get to add a sticker to their chart. After a week of consistent brushing, they can earn a small reward, like a new book or a fun outing.
The reward doesn’t have to be extravagant. What matters is that it reinforces the behavior and helps your child feel proud of their effort. Over time, the habit becomes second nature, and you’ll likely find that they continue brushing without needing the chart at all.
5. Tell a Story or Play Pretend
Imagination is a powerful tool, especially when it comes to young kids. Turn toothbrushing into a fun story or game by introducing characters and adventures.
Maybe the toothbrush is a superhero fighting off the “sugar bugs,” or your child is a dentist-in-training helping their stuffed animals brush first. You can even name the toothbrush and make it a recurring character in your child’s bedtime routine.
These kinds of creative approaches help shift the focus from “have to” to “want to,” giving brushing a playful spin. Kids are much more likely to cooperate when they’re having fun. And who knows, you might even enjoy brushing time a bit more yourself.
6. Talk About the ‘Why’—But Keep It Simple
Kids don’t always respond to lectures, but they do appreciate understanding why they’re being asked to do something. Instead of just saying, “Because I said so,” try explaining in simple terms why brushing is important.
You might say, “Brushing helps keep your teeth strong and shiny,” or “If we don’t brush, sugar bugs can make holes in our teeth called cavities.”
For older children, you can go a little deeper, showing pictures or using child-friendly videos to explain how plaque forms and what a cavity looks like. When kids understand the purpose behind the habit, they’re more likely to take ownership of it.
Bonus: Make Dental Visits a Positive Experience
Even with the best brushing habits at home, regular dental checkups are essential. When your child has a positive experience at the dentist, it reinforces the idea that taking care of their teeth is something to feel good about. At Gander Smiles Dentistry, we go the extra mile to make every child feel comfortable, welcome, and proud of their smile.
We’re always happy to answer your child’s questions, give brushing tips, and cheer them on for their efforts. When kids hear praise not just from parents but also from their dentist, it builds confidence and motivation.
Dental Checkups for Kids at Gander Smiles Dentistry
Getting your kids to brush doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. With a little creativity, patience, and a lot of encouragement, you can turn brushing into a fun and rewarding part of their day. The key is finding what works for your child and making it stick.
Remember, building strong habits now sets the foundation for lifetime habits. If it’s time for your child’s next dental checkup, book an appointment with Gander Smiles Dentistry today. Our friendly team is here to support your family’s oral health journey.